Hollywood is often associated with glamorous lifestyles, red carpets, and fame. However, many of the stars we admire have a different side to them—one that is deeply rooted in academia. Some of the most famous faces in entertainment have pursued unique and intellectually rigorous fields of study before they hit the big time. Their academic journeys have often shaped their careers and personal lives in ways that go beyond what we see on screen.
In this article, we will explore celebrities who pursued unique and surprising majors in college, shedding light on how their academic backgrounds influenced their lives, careers, and even the roles they take on in Hollywood.
1. Emma Watson – English Literature
Emma Watson, best known for her iconic role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, has always been a strong advocate for education. While her career as an actress rubranking began at a young age, Watson did not allow her fame to interfere with her academic pursuits. After completing her work on the Harry Potter films, Watson enrolled at Brown University, an Ivy League institution, where she earned a degree in English Literature.
Watson’s choice of major is not only a reflection of her intellectual interests but also a fitting tribute to her on-screen persona as the studious and bookish Hermione. English Literature provided Watson with the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of storytelling, history, and critical thinking—skills that would help her in her career both on and off the screen. Watson has spoken frequently about how her academic experiences have influenced her career choices, from her roles in films to her advocacy work for women’s rights. Her studies in literature helped her better understand characters, narratives, and human experiences, all of which are essential skills for an actress.
Beyond her academic success, Watson’s commitment to education has also played a role in her activism. As a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, Watson has worked tirelessly to promote gender equality, and her background in literature has given her the tools to effectively communicate complex ideas in a compelling and relatable way.
2. John Legend – English with an Emphasis on African-American Literature
John Legend, one of the most celebrated musicians of his generation, is known for his soulful voice and chart-topping hits like “All of Me” and “Glory.” However, before he became a Grammy-winning artist, Legend was a student at the University of Pennsylvania, where he majored in English with an emphasis on African-American Literature.
Legend’s academic focus on African-American literature is deeply personal. Growing up in a family that valued education, he developed a passion for reading and studying literature from a young age. His academic background in African-American literature not only helped him better understand the cultural and historical contexts of the music he later created but also deepened his sense of identity as an African-American artist.
Legend has credited his studies with shaping his approach to music and social issues. His education in literature, particularly works by authors such as Langston Hughes and Toni Morrison, gave him a broader perspective on race, history, and the human condition. These themes have often been central to his music, and his activism, particularly his work in criminal justice reform and racial equality, reflects the intellectual curiosity he cultivated during his academic years.
3. Natalie Portman – Psychology
Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress known for her performances in films like Black Swan and V for Vendetta. However, Portman is also known for her impressive academic achievements. While studying at Harvard University, she pursued a degree in Psychology, earning her Bachelor’s degree in 2003.
Portman’s interest in psychology was influenced by her curiosity about the human mind and behavior, and her studies allowed her to explore these topics in depth. While her acting career was flourishing, she managed to balance the demands of her education with her professional life, demonstrating an exceptional ability to juggle both. Portman has credited her education in psychology with helping her approach her acting roles in a more analytical and nuanced way. Understanding human behavior and emotions gave her a deeper insight into the characters she portrayed, allowing her to deliver more compelling and authentic performances.
Beyond her career in acting, Portman has also been involved in scientific research. She co-authored two research papers while at Harvard, one of which was published in a scientific journal. Her academic background has made her a vocal advocate for education, particularly for women in science and academia.
4. Ashton Kutcher – Biochemical Engineering
Ashton Kutcher is best known for his roles in That ‘70s Show and Two and a Half Men, as well as for his successful career as a producer and entrepreneur. However, Kutcher’s academic journey took a very different path before he entered the entertainment industry. Kutcher attended the University of Iowa, where he majored in Biochemical Engineering with the intention of pursuing a career in medical research.
Although Kutcher eventually dropped out of college to pursue modeling and acting, his background in biochemical engineering has had a lasting impact on his life. In particular, his technical and analytical mindset has informed his approach to business and technology. Kutcher has invested in a number of successful tech startups, including Skype, Airbnb, and Uber, and his interest in innovation and technology can be traced back to his studies in engineering.
Kutcher’s story serves as a reminder that even celebrities with non-traditional paths to fame often have diverse skill sets and intellectual backgrounds. His academic training in engineering not only helped shape his career in Hollywood but also provided him with the tools to become a successful venture capitalist.
5. James Franco – English and Creative Writing
James Franco is an actor, director, writer, and producer who is known for his roles in 127 Hours, Pineapple Express, and Spider-Man. Franco’s academic background is as diverse as his career. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in English from UCLA, and later pursued graduate studies at Columbia University, where he earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing.
Franco’s interest in English and creative writing reflects his passion for storytelling and literature. He has written several short stories, novels, and screenplays, demonstrating his commitment to exploring the written word in addition to his work in film. Franco’s academic pursuits have informed his acting career, giving him a deeper understanding of character development, narrative structure, and creative expression. His interest in writing and literature has also led him to explore more experimental and independent films, where he has had the opportunity to combine his love for storytelling with his intellectual interests.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Franco has taught creative writing and literature courses at several universities, further emphasizing his dedication to academia and the arts. His background in English and creative writing has played a crucial role in shaping his career and his approach to both acting and filmmaking.
6. Mayim Bialik – Neuroscience
Mayim Bialik is an actress best known for her role as Amy Farrah Fowler on The Big Bang Theory. While Bialik’s portrayal of a neurobiologist on television is certainly fitting, what many fans may not know is that Bialik herself holds a PhD in Neuroscience from UCLA. She earned her degree in 2007, with a dissertation on the role of oxytocin in the development of social and emotional behaviors in children with Prader-Willi syndrome.
Bialik’s academic journey is a testament to her commitment to both education and acting. She began her career as a child actress on the show Blossom, but she chose to prioritize her education before returning to acting in adult roles. Bialik’s decision to pursue neuroscience was influenced by her passion for science and her desire to contribute to the field in a meaningful way. Her educational background has also made her an advocate for science and STEM education, particularly for women. Bialik has used her platform to promote science literacy and to encourage young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in science and technology.
Her work on The Big Bang Theory was not only a career milestone but also a reflection of her own academic background. As a scientist on the show, Bialik brought authenticity and credibility to her role, blending her love for science with her acting talent.
7. Conan O’Brien – History and American Literature
Conan O’Brien is one of the most beloved late-night talk show hosts, known for his quick wit and humorous monologues. However, before he became a household name, O’Brien attended Harvard University, where he majored in History and American Literature. His academic background in these fields has had a profound impact on his career as a comedian and writer.
O’Brien has often spoken about how his studies in history and literature influenced his sense of humor and writing style. The critical thinking skills he developed during his studies at Harvard helped him craft the sharp, satirical comedy that made him famous. O’Brien’s love for storytelling and his ability to connect with his audience on an intellectual level can be traced back to his academic background. His work as a writer for The Simpsons and his own late-night show has been shaped by the analytical skills and creativity he cultivated during his time at Harvard.
Conclusion
The world of Hollywood is often seen as one where talent and charisma are the only prerequisites for success. However, many celebrities have defied this stereotype by pursuing unique and intellectually demanding academic fields before they achieved fame. Whether it’s Emma Watson’s studies in English Literature, Ashton Kutcher’s background in Biochemical Engineering, or Mayim Bialik’s PhD in Neuroscience, these celebrities demonstrate that intellectual pursuits and creativity are not mutually exclusive.
Their academic backgrounds have not only influenced their careers but have also shaped their personal values and social contributions. These celebrities remind us that education can play a crucial role in shaping who we are, how we see the world, and how we approach our careers, even in industries as unpredictable and glamorous as Hollywood.